The Angami Youth Organisation (AYO) welcomed filmmaker Theja Rio at the Cargo Terminal Area of Chumoukedima Airport on Tuesday, following his film ANGH’s win of the Platform Prize at the 2026 Toronto International Film Festival.
Rio said bringing ANGH back to Nagaland mattered more than the TIFF accolade. The film, which has been in development for years, features a cast and crew largely from Nagaland and is rooted in local culture. He thanked producer Nancy Nisa Beso, lead actor Anglong Konyak, Sobino Rengma, casting director Bendang Walling, Genpai Konyak, Wangton Konyak and assistant director Lima sanglir, among others.
He reflected that research into Konyak traditions—books, documentaries, field visits—ensured authenticity. Rio praised the support of the Konyak community and the crews who filmed in Ghaspani and Phesama, and announced preparations for an Oscar campaign, calling for continued support and prayers.
AYO president Petevito Nakhro congratulated the team, noting the achievement reflected hard work and pledged ongoing support. Representatives from the Chakhroma Public Organisation, Naga Students’ Federation and Eastern Naga Students’ Federation also lauded the film as a milestone that brings Naga stories to a global audience and inspires young storytellers.
The ceremony was chaired by AYO press secretary Vitsikolie Kehie, with an invocation by Rev. Zhau Sanchu and a welcome address from AYO general secretary Vipu Zashumo. Attendees included church leaders, community bodies and other well‑wishers.
During a post‑programme media interaction, producer Nancy Nisa Beso explained that ANGH was one of 12 films selected for competition from 9,000 submissions. The team plans an international festival run before a theatrical release in Nagaland next year, followed by a digital‑platform release. Rio stressed the importance of authentic representation and hopes the film will spark global curiosity about Nagaland.
